Exclusive: Doctor Who Performed Kobe Bryant's Surgery Is Optimistic

The doctor who performed surgery on Kobe Bryant’s ruptured Achilles’ tendon said he expects the Lakers star to be back playing at some point next season.
Speaking exclusively to The Times, Dr. Neal ElAttrache said Sunday that Bryant’s competitive drive and mental toughness will give him an edge in recovering from an injury that figures to sideline him at least six to nine months.